H1N1 (Swine Flu) News - Ferret Tests Positive in Oregon

For the latest news, please see the H1N1 and Animal News Archive

The first case of H1N1 infection, formerly called swine flu, in a ferret has been reported by the Oregon Veterinary Medical Association (OVMA).

From the OVMA press release:

On October 8, 2009, Oregon State University's Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory presumptively diagnosed pandemic influenza H1N1 by PCR from the nasal secretions of the ferret.

On October 9, 2009, pandemic influenza H1N1 was confirmed at the National Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory.
Read full press release

This possibility has been warned about, as ferrets are susceptible to human influenza viruses. Pet birds may be at risk too, since the H1N1 jumped to turkeys last summer.

In the Oregon ferret case, the human family had been sick with symptoms compatible with the flu virus, so the ferret was tested at OSU and the National Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory. Good news - according to the report, the ferret is recovering.

It is still thought that dogs and cats are not susceptible to the H1N1 virus. Dogs and cats do have their own versions of influenza viruses though, and the canine H3N8 virus is currently making the rounds - some areas of the US are seeing more cases than others, but everyone should be aware of potential for atypical "kennel cough" cases in dogs.

The AVMA FAQ on H1N1 was updated today with information on a variety of species and their susceptibility to the H1N1 virus.

Related News Stories

• Oregon ferret infected with H1N1 by its owner
  From the AVMA
• 2009 H1N1 Flu Virus Outbreak
  H1N1 News from the AVMA, updated frequently
• Ferret gets swine flu from its owner, a first
  From OregonLive.com
• Is Your Ferret Sneezing? Pet Catches H1N1 Flu
  From US News and World Report

Photo: Burt the Ferret © Julianne at FURSrescue

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